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Broward County Animal Shelter Over Capacity, Officials Urge Adoptions and Fostering

by Sharon Aron Baron May 22, 2026

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Broward County Animal Care has activated code HOME after exceeding dog shelter capacity. The shelter currently has 152 dogs in its care, but only 148 available kennels, prompting the emergency community response campaign during one of the busiest times of the year.

Adoption fees have been waived, although pet registration requirements still apply.

Residents can view adoptable pets through Broward County Animal Care’s online adoption portal.

“Every kennel matters, and every member of our community can be part of the solution,” said Doug Brightwell, director of Broward County Animal Care. “Because we are an open admission shelter and the County’s official animal welfare agency, our doors remain open to animals that need protection and care. Right now, we need Broward County’s help through adoption, fostering, and reunification efforts.”

As Broward County’s official animal welfare agency, Animal Care is required to accept animals in need and investigate cruelty, neglect, dangerous dog cases, and public safety concerns throughout the county.

Officials are urging the public to help ease overcrowding by adopting, fostering, or helping reunite lost pets with their owners.

Animal Care said that adopting a pet creates space for another animal needing shelter, while temporary foster homes can reduce kennel stress and improve dogs’ well-being outside the shelter.

Officials also noted that many animals entering the shelter are lost pets with families searching for them. Residents are encouraged to review found-pet listings and visit the shelter to help reconnect pets with their owners.

More information about Broward County Animal Care, adoptable pets, and ways to support the agency is available at Broward.org/Animal.

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